Life After Restaurant & Lounge

- Inside The Metropolitan, 190 River Rd 2nd Floor, Edgewater, NJ 07020

Introduction / Overview

For New Jersey residents seeking an upscale dining experience that harmoniously blends bold, soulful-inspired cuisine with an electric, sophisticated atmosphere, Life After Restaurant & Lounge in Edgewater is the premier destination. Located inside The Metropolitan building, this establishment is more than just a place to eat; it's a vibrant cultural hub where thoughtful design, rhythmic soundtracks, and expertly curated food and drinks come together to "honor culture, spark connections, and ignite creativity." It stands out in the competitive North Jersey landscape as a Black-owned and Women-owned business dedicated to providing an elevated social and culinary experience.

The menu at Life After is a testament to creativity and energy, offering a diverse array of dishes that cater to a variety of preferences. From inventive appetizers like Hard Core Minis and Sweet Life Potato Hummus to signature entrees that pay tribute to cultural icons, such as the Still Not A Playa Lobster Pasta and Illmatic Jerk Chicken, the offerings are deeply rooted in soulful American cuisine. Patrons also rave about the Great cocktails, which feature iconic names like the Shawn Carterita and All Eyez On Tea, making it a true lounge experience.

Open for both Dinner and highly popular Weekend Brunches, the venue maintains a Cozy and Trendy atmosphere. The staff is consistently described as friendly and attentive, contributing to the overall "nice vibe" that encourages guests to linger. With a focus on providing an immersive experience, complete with Live music and a stylish, yet "upscale casual," dress code, Life After truly embodies a celebrated social scene right in the heart of Edgewater, NJ.

Location and Accessibility

Life After Restaurant & Lounge is strategically situated in a highly visible and easily accessible spot in Edgewater, NJ 07020, positioning it perfectly for North Jersey locals and visitors. The restaurant's address is Inside The Metropolitan, 190 River Rd 2nd Floor, Edgewater, NJ 07020, USA.

Being located within The Metropolitan building provides significant advantages, especially concerning accessibility and parking—often a premium in this part of Bergen County. Guests benefit from a variety of stress-free parking solutions, including a Free parking garage, Free parking lot, and dedicated Valet parking available on Fridays and Saturdays (6 PM – Midnight) and Sundays (12 PM – 6 PM). The location's design also prioritizes inclusivity, boasting a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring comfort for all.

Its River Road location places it close to major routes connecting to the rest of Bergen County and offering stunning views, which may include the celebrated Rooftop seating option. The combination of easy access and high-end amenities makes Life After an ideal choice for planning a special night out or a vibrant weekend brunch.

Services Offered

Life After Restaurant & Lounge provides a full suite of elevated services designed to create a memorable dining and social occasion for the New Jersey community:

• Dining Service Options: Offering both full-service Dine-in and convenient Takeout for those on the go.
• Extensive Dining Periods: Serving Brunch (Sundays 11am - 6pm), Lunch, and Dinner, with specialized Late-night food options on weekends.
• Event and Group Accommodations: Available for Catering and features a Private dining room, perfect for semi-private events and large groups.
• Bar and Beverage Program: Features a fully stocked Bar onsite with a Great beer selection, Great wine list, Hard liquor, and an array of signature Cocktails.
• Happy Hour: An excellent Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food menu is available Wednesday through Friday from 5pm - 8pm.
• Entertainment and Vibe: Regularly features Live music and a resident DJ, cultivating the energetic, rhythmic ambiance that patrons love. Past events include specialized nights and themed brunches, suggesting a vibrant events calendar.
• Planning Convenience: Accepts reservations, with Dinner reservations recommended to ensure seating for their sought-after evening and weekend slots. Walk-ins are also welcome based on availability.
• Inclusivity: Proudly an LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safespace, welcoming all members of the community.

Features / Highlights

The highlights of Life After Restaurant & Lounge go beyond the traditional dining spot, focusing on a holistic, elevated lifestyle experience:

• Signature Soulful Cuisine: The menu is highly creative, featuring unique takes on comfort food, such as the Atliens Shrimp & Grits, Choppastyle Chops, and the decadent Still Not A Playa Lobster Pasta. Dishes utilize bold flavors inspired by soulful American traditions.
• Iconic Beverage Program: Noted for their Great cocktails, including themed drinks from the 'Mixtapes' section (Purple Drank, The Old Dirty Bastard) and a strong selection of wines and beer, reflecting an urban sophistication.
• Atmosphere and Entertainment: The vibe is distinctively Trendy and Cozy, brought to life by Live music and a carefully curated soundtrack that honors R&B and Soul culture. Guests repeatedly praise the 'nice vibe' and the quality of the DJ.
• Community and Values: The establishment identifies as Black-owned and Women-owned, providing a welcoming space for Locals and Groups, and is known for its Fast service.
• Dietary Accommodations: The menu includes thoughtful options like Organic dishes, Vegan options, and Vegetarian options, ensuring that diverse dietary needs are met with high-quality food.
• Weekend Brunch Scene: The weekend Brunch is highly popular, featuring creative dishes like Waffle Anthem (cornbread waffles) and Eggs Benny From The Bronx, often accompanied by music and bottomless mimosa options (subject to terms).
• Dress Code: The restaurant encourages a "stylish and sophisticated vibe"—upscale casual, trendy, and polished attire—which contributes to the overall elevated ambiance of the lounge.

Contact Information

New Jersey locals interested in experiencing the unique blend of food, culture, and vibe at Life After Restaurant & Lounge can use the following information to plan their visit or make inquiries:

Address:

Inside The Metropolitan, 190 River Rd 2nd Floor, Edgewater, NJ 07020, USA

Phone:

(201) 699-0977

Mobile Phone:

+1 201-699-0977

Note: Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially for weekend dinner and brunch services. Inquiries regarding private events or large party bookings can be made directly via their phone number.

What is Worth Choosing

For sophisticated diners in New Jersey, choosing Life After Restaurant & Lounge is an investment in a full-spectrum social and culinary experience, not just a meal. It is worth choosing for several compelling reasons:

First, it delivers an unparalleled atmosphere. The combination of Live music, an elevated setting, and a clientele that dresses the part ensures a dynamic and memorable night out, which is a desirable alternative to typical Bergen County dining. The environment is perfect for celebrating a special occasion, hosting a Group, or simply enjoying a sophisticated Solo dining experience.

Second, the kitchen and bar offer high-quality, memorable fare. From the generosity of the lobster in the Still Not A Playa Lobster Pasta to the complex flavors of the Illmatic Jerk Chicken, the dishes are executed with care and creativity. The Great cocktails are a major highlight, standing as strong offerings on their own.

Finally, the convenience and quality of service are tailored for the modern New Jersey patron. With easy accessibility, ample parking options (Free parking garage, Valet parking), a clear reservation system, and a warm, inclusive welcome, Life After provides a stress-free and luxurious experience from start to finish. It is the destination where culture, cuisine, and conviviality meet in Edgewater, NJ.

Life After Restaurant & Lounge

Inside The Metropolitan, 190 River Rd 2nd Floor, Edgewater, NJ 07020, USA